Beekeeping in Malta

Abstract

This dissertation introduces the reader to a basic knowledge of what the world of Apiculture on the Maltese Islands is all about. The origin of the Maltese Endemic Bee is described, after being recently analysed and accepted as a completely different subspecies and given the scientific name as Apis mellifera ruttneri. Further on, the reader is given the opportunity to appreciate one of the most impressive heritages found on the Islands due to the description of the Ancient Apiaries in Xemxija. The old beekeeping practices are also described and compared to those performed nowadays, initiating with the usage of clay jars and ending with the modem wooden box hives. Beekeeping practices performed on the Islands are tackled, demonstrating the honey harvest, of the past and present, as well as the importance of disease recognition and control. Queen Rearing is another practice explained in detail which momentarily however, is not vastly practiced in Malta, nor in Gozo. Suggestions are finally introduced to increase the beekeepers education, and the Api tourism sector, as well as to improve the Apiculture Industry, for environmental (increasing pollination) and tourism purposes.